2 March 2007

The Bright Stuff

Totem Clothing

You’ve done Venice, Notting Hill and Cadiz. Hell, you even got your butt to Mardi Gras.

Not that you remember much about any of them.

If you view life as one big carnival, party on down with Brazilian label Totem, which fuses the bold colours of Rio with the psychedelic prints of London’s swinging ’60s.

Designed by Fred D’Orey (once one of Brazil’s top five surfers), the sexy dresses have quirky hems, as well as pleats and collar details. Other staples include kaftans and tunics, plus colourful Brazilian-style bikinis; supportive yet delightfully skimpy, these require a decent pube wax before wearing.

From around £50, Totem’s pieces are both affordable and durable — i.e., they can handle a season of sun, sand and whatever else you’re into without falling apart.

Unlike someone else we know.

Available from Sunday at Topshop, 214 Oxford Street, W1C 1DA (020 7636 7700); Chica, 14 Market Street, E1 6DT (020 7247 9700). To see styles, go to totemnet.com.br.